Page 1 of 2 Next >>Introduced in 1961, the Ginetta G4 proved both a big hit on the showroom floor and a formidable weapon on the track, harrying around much bigger engined machines across the British Isles. The four Walklett brothers, who had founded Ginetta, next set their sight on the lucrative American market. They understood that for this purpose the diminutive four cylinder engine would not suffice, so they launched the V8-powered G10 at the 1965 Racing Car Show.

The G10 was based on the proven design of the existing Ginetta models and was built around a steel tubular spaceframe chassis. Additional rigidity was provided by the glass reinforced plastic (GRP) body, which was bonded onto the chassis. Independent suspension was fitted on all four corners as were Girling disc brakes. To cut production costs, the Walklett brothers fitted the G10 with MGB doors and windshield. As a result the new Ginetta did bear more than a passing resemblance to the popular MG model.

To power the new Ginetta, the obvious choice was the Ford small-block V8, which was also used by the G10's intended rival; the Shelby Cobra. The prototype shown at the Racing Car Show featured a Shelby Mustang specification engine, good for around 290 bhp. In preparation for its competition debut it was subsequently uprated with four Weber carburettors and a hotter camshaft, raising the power to over 350 bhp. Tipping the scales at just 900 kg, the new Ginetta G10 boasted a very competitive power to weight ratio. Page 1 of 2 Next >>